Discover the 2026 Kia Seltos Base at Matthews Kia of Cartersville
Experience the blend of versatility, technology, and robust capability that defines the 2026 Kia Seltos. Designed for drivers in Cartersville and the surrounding cities like Acworth, Canton, and Marietta, this subcompact SUV offers balanced performance and thoughtful features ideal for everyday adventures. Whether navigating urban streets or weekend escapes to the neighborhoods of Fairmount or Dalton, the Seltos delivers a driving experience built to impress. Visit us at 595 E Main St, Cartersville, GA 30121 or call (770) 386-8400 to explore the possibilities.
Table of Contents
- Modern Utility Meets Subcompact Versatility
- Exterior Craftsmanship and Styling Insights
- Engine Dynamics and Road Presence
- Passenger Space and Interior Comfort
- Technology Features and Connectivity
- Safety Innovations and Driver Aids
- Trim Options and Feature Packages
- Comprehensive Warranty and Maintenance Support
- Why Matthews Kia of Cartersville Makes Sense
Modern Utility Meets Subcompact Versatility
The 2026 Kia Seltos represents a thoughtfully engineered subcompact SUV designed to suit a wide range of lifestyles, from daily commutes in the busy streets of Marietta to weekend getaways in the scenic areas around Johns Creek. Seating five comfortably within a spacious cabin, the Seltos boasts a user-friendly combination of agility and cargo capacity, meeting the demands of small families or active individuals.
Powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 146 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Seltos Base trims prioritize efficiency and smooth operation. Front-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive available for those navigating unpredictable weather on routes to Fairmount or Cedartown. The balance of power and fuel economy enables confident driving with approximately 28 miles per gallon in city conditions and up to 34 on highways.
Competitive within its class of subcompact SUVs, the Seltos stands alongside models such as the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30, offering a generous interior volume and updated safety technologies geared to reassure drivers across urban and semi-rural environments including Sweetwater Estates and Three Branches.
Dimensions and Passenger Room
Spacious design is a hallmark of the 2026 Seltos, with front seat occupants enjoying 43.1 inches of legroom and rear passengers benefiting from 38 inches of leg space. This open feel enhances comfort during longer trips through the neighborhoods of Dallas or Calhoun.
Passenger and Cargo Space Overview
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Front legroom | 43.1 inches |
| Rear legroom | 38.0 inches |
| Cargo volume (behind rear seats) | 26.6 cubic feet |
| Cargo volume (rear seats folded) | 62.8 cubic feet |
Exterior Craftsmanship and Styling Insights
From the streets of Acworth to the avenues of Woodstock, the 2026 Seltos makes an assertive visual statement with its contemporary silhouette and refined detailing. Standard 17-inch dark gray alloy wheels lend presence without overwhelming the subcompact stature, perfectly balancing practicality and style.
The vehicle’s profile is streamlined but distinctive, featuring Kia’s signature LED daytime running lights and taillights that ensure visibility and modern appeal. Available in several attractive colors, one notable option includes the Clear White exterior paired with a Fusion Black roof, lending a sporty two-tone effect popular in urban locales like Adairsville.
Roof rails come standard starting from the S trim, useful for hauling gear for weekend ventures around Taylorsville or Greyfield North, while power liftgate functionality is reserved for upper trims. The LX Base prioritizes simplicity and function, offering a clean design that fits smoothly into diverse neighborhood settings.
Exterior Specification Highlights
| Aspect | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheel size | 17-inch dark gray alloy wheels |
| Height | 64.0 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches |
| Length | 172.6 inches |
| Roof rails | Available on S trim and above |
| Lighting | LED daytime running lights standard |
Engine Dynamics and Road Presence
Under the hood, the 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder provides reliable performance emphasizing controlled, efficient operation perfect for the traffic conditions typical of Cartersville and nearby Dallas. The CVT complements the setup with seamless gear changes aimed at optimizing fuel consumption and delivering a composed driving experience.
For buyers prioritizing greater acceleration and all-weather capability—common concerns in areas like Pine Hurst and Rome—the availability of all-wheel drive combines with Kia’s 1.6-liter turbocharged engine (found in higher trims) for increased output and turbocharged response. While the Base model is expressed through its naturally aspirated engine, it still offers competitive 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 8.3 seconds, adequate for everyday needs.
Attention has been given to suspension tuning, balancing ride comfort and handling. Although some occupants might notice firmness on uneven surfaces compared to competitors like the Subaru Crosstrek, the overall driving dynamics maintain stability and predictability. Braking systems incorporating front 12.0-inch vented discs and rear 11.0-inch rotors contribute to efficient stopping power.
Performance Overview for Base 2.0L Configuration
| Performance Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine displacement | 2.0 liters |
| Horsepower | 146 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive standard; AWD optional |
| 0-60 mph acceleration | ~8.3 seconds |
| Estimated fuel economy (city) | 28 mpg |
| Estimated fuel economy (highway) | 34 mpg |
Passenger Space and Interior Comfort
The cabin of the 2026 Seltos is tailored for comfort and utility, maximizing space usage for occupants in both front and rear seating rows. Materials utilized in the Base trim largely consist of durable cloth and plastics selected for longevity and ease of maintenance, apt for families moving around areas such as Sweetwater Estates or residential zones in Calhoun.
Rear passengers benefit from 38 inches of legroom with seats that fold in a 60/40 split, expanding cargo capacity when needed for hobbies or supplies sourced from nearby Woodstock or Johns Creek markets. The cabin layout provides good visibility, and low noise insulation is standard for the class, although road and wind sounds can be slightly more noticeable compared to premium rivals.
Additional comfort features such as heated seating, power adjustments, and upgraded materials become accessible at higher trim levels, aligning with consumers’ preferences in broader markets like Marietta and Dallas.
Interior Dimensions and Seating Details
| Interior Feature | Dimension/Specification |
|---|---|
| Seating capacity | 5 passengers |
| Front passenger volume | 53 cubic feet |
| Rear passenger volume | 46 cubic feet |
| Rear seat configuration | 60/40 split fold with reclining |
| Cargo space (seats folded) | 62.8 cubic feet |
Technology Features and Connectivity
Connectivity is fundamental in the 2026 Kia Seltos Base, providing seamless integration for digital lifestyles prevalent across areas like Cedartown and Acworth. The base model includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enabling intuitive smartphone connectivity for music, navigation, and communication.
The driver is supported by a compact 4.2-inch instrument display delivering key information clearly without distraction. USB charging ports both front and rear help equip passengers on journeys to destinations such as Taylorsville or Canton with convenient device power sources.
While top-tier trims elevate the user experience with dual 10.3-inch panoramic displays and premium Bose audio, the Base trim provides dependable, modern tech sufficient for daily routines and longer drives alike.
Technology Equipment Summary
| Component | Base Trim Specification |
|---|---|
| Touchscreen size | 8.0 inches |
| Instrument cluster display | 4.2 inches digital |
| Smartphone integration | Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto |
| USB ports | 2 front, 2 rear (standard) |
| Audio system | 6-speaker setup |
| Wireless charging | Not available in Base |
Safety Innovations and Driver Aids
Addressing safety fundamentals, the 2026 Seltos comes equipped with a robust array of standard features designed to protect occupants and enhance awareness in varied driving environments, including those in Cartersville and the surrounding communities like Dallas or Fairmount.
Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection helps prevent collisions in busy streets, while lane keeping and lane centering capabilities assist with maintaining safe lane positioning on highways en route to Marietta or Johns Creek. Driver attention monitoring encourages alertness across extended drives.
More sophisticated driver assistance features such as blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alerts are optional on higher trims. Rear parking sensors further aid maneuvering in tighter spaces common in residential areas like Sweetwater Estates.
Safety ratings include a 5-star overall from NHTSA and mixed results from IIHS, with particular caution advised regarding headlight performance on lower trims.
Safety Features Catalog
| Safety Feature | Availability |
|---|---|
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard on all trims |
| Lane Keep Assist & Lane Centering | Standard |
| Driver Attention Monitoring | Standard |
| Rear Occupant Alert | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Optional (S trim and above) |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Optional (S trim and above) |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Optional (EX and SX trims) |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available on upper trims |
If emergencies arise due to vehicle issues, Kia Roadside Assistance is your exclusive support partner, offering swift manufacturer-backed help that ensures genuine parts and authorized service. Contact Kia Roadside Assistance directly at Kia Roadside Assistance: 800-872-6327 or coordinate with Matthews Kia of Cartersville for assistance.
Trim Options and Feature Packages
The 2026 Kia Seltos lineup provides a clear progression from the Base LX trim to more feature-rich versions, allowing customers across regions like Dalton, Calhoun, and Pine Hurst to select models that align with their preferences and lifestyles.
The Base LX trim positions itself as an accessible entry point with essential technology and safety features, while the S trim contributes refined styling elements such as machined 17-inch wheels, roof rails, and an upgraded infotainment touchscreen with navigation.
Moving upward, the EX trim introduces dual panoramic displays, power-adjustable driver’s seats with heating, and wireless charging functionality—enhancing daily driving comfort. The capstone SX trim boasts the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine delivering enhanced performance, larger 18-inch wheels, Bose premium audio, and advanced driver assistance technologies.
Summary of Key Trim Features
| Trim | MSRP | Engine | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX (Base) | $23,690 | 2.0L 4-cylinder (147 hp) | Basic safety & tech, AWD available, 17″ wheels (dark gray) |
| S | $25,390 | 2.0L 4-cylinder (147 hp) | Roof rails, blind-spot assist, 10.25″ touchscreen, AWD opt. |
| EX | $26,390 | 2.0L 4-cylinder (147 hp) | Dual screens, heated seats, wireless charging, power seat |
| SX | $31,390 | 1.6L turbo 4-cylinder (190 hp) | Turbo engine standard, 18″ wheels, Bose audio, advanced aids |
Explore detailed inventory availability of new Kia models including the New Kia Seltos Inventory and find tailored vehicles at Matthews Kia of Cartersville ready to match your driving needs.
Comprehensive Warranty and Maintenance Support
Backing the 2026 Kia Seltos is a competitive warranty program that stands out in the industry. The model benefits from Kia’s 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty, providing long-term peace of mind to drivers in neighborhoods like Three Branches and Greyfield North.
Additionally, Matthews Kia of Cartersville offers the exclusive Matthews Kia Warranty Forever program, which complements the manufacturer’s coverage with extended benefits throughout ownership.
Routine maintenance is efficiently managed through our dealership service center, conveniently located at 595 E Main St, Cartersville, GA 30121. Schedule your next appointment anytime via our streamlined online tool: Schedule Service.
Warranty Coverage Specifications
| Warranty Type | Duration / Mileage |
|---|---|
| Limited Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside Assistance | Included during warranty period |
Why Matthews Kia of Cartersville Makes Sense
Choosing Matthews Kia of Cartersville means partnering with a dealership that embodies the motto “We Treat You Like Family”. Serving customers from Acworth to Rome and beyond, we bring expert knowledge of the 2026 Kia Seltos, ensuring personalized guidance through every step of your vehicle selection.
Our extensive inventory includes not only new models like the New Kia Inventory but also a variety of quality pre-owned options available at Matthews Kia Preowned Inventory. If you’re considering a trade, explore our convenient online tool to get your vehicle’s current value: Trade-In.
Located at the heart of Cartersville on 595 E Main St, our team is ready to assist residents from Fairmount, Marietta, and surrounding areas with knowledgeable, professional service. Request a test drive today and experience firsthand the confident drive and thoughtful design of the 2026 Kia Seltos Base.
Contact us directly at (770) 386-8400 to schedule your personalized appointment or visit our showroom for expert assistance. We look forward to welcoming you to the Matthews Kia family.
© 2025 Matthews Kia of Cartersville


Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.